professional development
what?
Professional development refers to an aggregate of practices - formal education, professional training, informal learning - that all intend to help educators improve their professional knowledge, competence, skills and effectiveness. A proper professional development plan does not rely on just one activity or technique, but rather promotes a comprehensive holistic approach. For example, a professional development plan for faculty members would involve research and self reflection by the faculty, as well as ensure regular observation feedback and coaching.
why?
It is difficult to underestimate the positive effects that relevant and consistent professional development can have on the students, teachers, administrators and the organization overall.
Professional organizations and accreditation agencies emphasize the importance of continuous professional development to ensure high standards of teaching and positive learners’ outcomes.
Thus, ACCET, a recognized authority in accreditation of language, vocational training and continuous education programs in the USA, stipulates regular and relevant in-service training and professional development sessions as one of the standards for ensuring effective, high-quality instruction. Similarly, a demonstrated ongoing commitment to professional development is one of the faculty related standards posted by CEA, an accrediting organization specializing in English teaching programs world-wide.
Professional development is an equally important concept for higher education institutions. ACICS stipulates that all accredited institutions are required to establish faculty development plans including both in-service and professional growth activities to enhance faculty expertise.
how?
Ensuring a consistent and relevant professional development plan requires expertise and most importantly time - the luxury that most administrators simply do not have given an average workload for the role. This is where Training Lounge can help.
Our work process is simple and completely transparent. A member of our team will meet with you to assess the needs of your organization.
We will then create a proposal to help you achieve your goals, whether you are looking for a yearly plan or for a one-time session on a particular topic. We do not believe in one-fits all approach, which is why we do not come to you with premade workshops. Rather, after completing a careful analysis of your needs, we will work with content specialists, plan the delivery of sessions and take care of the logistics. We will make sure that the PD pan is fully compliant with your accreditor’s standards. Finally, we will coordinate that all sessions get delivered as scheduled, in-person or online. We will conduct participants' satisfaction surveys and provide you with the results and recommendations.